Detection Tools for Arson or Fire Investigation

Fire investigation, sometimes referred to as origin and cause investigation, is the analysis of fire-related incidents. After firefighters extinguish a fire, an investigation is launched to determine the origin and cause of the fire or explosion. Investigations of such incidents require a systematic approach and knowledge of basic fire science.

Detecting Arson Accelerants for Fire/Arson Investigators

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there were 19,000 intentionally set fires in the US during 2014 accounting for around 4% of all structural fire equating to more than $700m worth of damaged property. UK figures would suggest that more than 40% of fires in business premises and more than 20% in residential properties are intentional, whether for profit, revenge or just ‘kicks’.

VOC Detection for Health & Safety

Fire Triangle

Arson investigations pose unique challenges. Investigations involve sifting through a tremendous amount of debris, often tons, that can be heavily damaged or contaminated during firefighting efforts. Despite the destruction, traces of accelerants, typically hydrocarbon-based fuels like gasoline or kerosene, can remain detectable. These accelerants release Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) during combustion.

While traditionally, trained dogs have been used to detect these VOCs, their availability and access can be limited, especially in hazardous environments. This is where VOC detectors become a valuable tool for fire investigators.

Fire is a regular, everyday occurrence, but it is also a tremendously complicated chemical, physical, and thermal event. The "fire triangle"—fuel, oxygen, and a source of heat or ignition—will be the focus of investigation work; in arson instances, at least one of these will have been tampered with.

Shawcity's Solution

One such tool for the detection of accelerants at fire scenes recommended by investigators is the photoionization detector (PID) Tiger XT by Ion Science which has already proven to be an ideal solution for the detection of relatively low-level VOCs for health & safety and environmental applications. The Fire Investigation Kit is battery powered and portable and can be deployed rapidly and safely to test areas between floorboards and under carpets where residual traces of accelerant may remain.

Pros of Using PIDs

PIDs are portable and battery powered making them ideal for field detecting-arson-accelerants-scope applications.
PIDs are a quick, simple to use and accurate method for the detection of accelerants at a fire scene.
PIDs are very sensitive to commonly found accelerants and will detect hundreds of gasses and vapours.

Benefits of working with Shawcity

Long-established and well-experienced within the industry, Shawcity offers the fire investigation toolkit for hire or purchase. All customers receive free consultations, ongoing technical support and product training as well as fleet management support through our manufacturer-authorised in-house service centre for servicing, calibration, spares and repairs.

Tel: 01367 899418
solutions@shawcity.co.uk